USB is an abbreviation for ‘Universal Serial Bus’, originally mainly a way to connect devices to your computer. Today, it is increasingly used to charge mobile devices. Because the plug is universal, it was possible to avoid a lot of unnecessary waste from different types of chargers.
The maximum charging speed always depends on the possible output of the charger, the maximum current of the cable, and the maximum charging speed of the device.
Chargers often use the USB-A and USB-C ports. The device you want to charge has more options, depending on the power requirement and year of manufacture. Below we will explain the different types of USB ports.
The most famous form of USB is the A plug, which was originally the 'computer side' of the cable. Most chargers for your phone, tablet, or camera have this plug on one side. Charging speed may vary depending on the charger, cable and device. Note that for most tablets you need 2.1 amp output. Smaller appliances usually need 1 amp.
This is the latest USB version which is on most new devices. The plug is small, reversible, and can handle greater currents (and data transfers) than previous versions. The cables with USB-C plugs on both sides can handle the largest currents. Goal Zero typically uses 18W or 60W (PD) USB-C ports.
Lightning ports and plugs are used for many Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads. This plug is also reversible and can handle higher currents in conjunction with a USB-C charger. The actual charging speed will depend on the cable, charger and device to be charged.
Micro USB was the standard plug to charge your mobile device until USB-C was introduced. The plug was smaller than its predecessor, which also allowed the port on the device to be made smaller. In contrast to the current USB-C standard, this plug is not reversible, and the maximum currents are lower.
Many devices are made on an input of 12 Volts because cars, motorhomes and caravans usually work on this voltage. Cool boxes, for example, often have a 12-volt car plug. If a gate is ‘regulated’, it will provide 12 volts until fully discharged. An unregulated port will not do this, causing some devices to stop charging when the battery is no longer fully charged. The entire Yeti X lineup has regulated 12 Volt ports, allowing the devices to be used to full discharge.
The 12 Volt car charger is the most recognizable car plug, which used to be the cigarette lighter in the car. Please note that a regulated cable must always be used between lead and lithium batteries.
The most recognizable car plug that used to be the cigarette lighter in the car. Please note that a regulated cable must always be used between lead and lithium batteries.
There are 6mm ports on the Yetis, which are also based on 12 Volts, but are specifically made for the 'light a life 350'.
The Goal Zero charge controllers use SAE plugs as a link to your lead-acid battery. SAE plugs are the most common plugs for accessories for car-and motorcycle batteries.
Europe’s mains power is 230V, and although the voltage of these devices is all the same, we must note that the current (often indicated in wattage) can vary. For example, a Sherpa 100AC is primarily made to connect smaller devices. Think of 230 Volt chargers for cameras or small televisions. The larger Yetis can handle 2000 Watts with a peak power of 3500 Watts. Most power tools, kettles or even electric heaters can be connected to this. Always check the wattage on the device first to make sure it works properly.
A 230 Volt plug with relatively thin pins, used in most European countries. The plug is not grounded and is often used with devices with a relatively low current (up to 2.5 amps). The Sherpa 100AC has a 230 Volt option that only fits the Type C plug
This 230 Volt plug has thicker pins with grounding capabilities. These plugs and ports can handle higher currents and fit together securely. The entire Yeti X lineup has sockets that these plugs fit into. PLEASE NOTE: that Portable Power Stations are not grounded.
Solar panels generally use different cables than discussed above. Other brands often use MC4 cables, while Goal Zero focuses more on ‘plug and play’ 8mm or HPP (High Power Port) cables. You can see that the smaller solar panels have built-in USB capabilities to maximize ease of use. Which cable is most suitable depends on the strength of the current. We explain these details below.
An 8mm plug is required for solar panels from 10 Watt to 150 Watt. 8mm offers the option of 14V to 50V, up to10 amps (150 Watt maximum). Goal Zero's power adapter also uses this 8mm port(or a HPP port).
An HPP port is required for solar panels that charge more than 150 Watts. HPP offers from 14V to 50V, up to 50 amps (600 Watts maximum). The 230 Watt and 600 Watt PSU use this port.
The MC4 cable is not a standard cable in the Goal Zero ecosystem. This cable is used with many other brands of solar panels. Goal Zero has two cables to make this compatible: the MC4 to 8mm and the MC4 to HPP cable. For safety reasons, these cables are only sold on request. Please reach out to us.
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